Many homeowners have heat pumps installed but don’t know how to control the heat pump for maximum efficiency. What they don’t realise is that it’s the controls for these systems that are key to unlocking their full potential.
Often, the advanced heat pump controls are tucked away and not being used properly. Alternatively they may have been replaced with basic thermostats that actually reduce efficiency.
In this article, we will explain how you can use your heat pump controls the right way. The way that allows you to save money and keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

The Problem with Basic Thermostats

A lot of people use “smart” thermostats that simply turn the heat pump on and off. While they might connect to your phone, these thermostats make your heat pump work harder than necessary. This constant cycling (turning on and off) can lower the heat pump’s efficiency and raise your energy bills.

Weather Compensation: The Smart Way to Control Your Heat Pump

The best way to control your heat pump is by using weather compensation, which is usually built into the heat pump’s own controls.

Here’s how it works:

  1. External Sensor: Your heat pump has an outdoor temperature sensor that tracks the weather outside.
  2. Adjusting Temperature: Based on the outside temperature, the system adjusts the temperature of the water flowing to your radiators. For example, when it’s very cold outside (like -3°C), your system will heat the water to a higher temperature to keep your home warm. But as it gets warmer outside, the system lowers the water temperature automatically.

This approach ensures your home stays at a comfortable temperature without wasting energy. The heat pump runs more slowly and steadily, which is much more efficient than turning it on and off all the time.

Why On/Off Stats Cause Problems

When you use basic thermostats with weather compensation, your system waits until your house cools down before it kicks in, forcing your heat pump to work harder to “catch up.” Once the house heats up, the thermostat shuts the system off again, starting the cycle all over. This cycling causes inefficiencies and higher energy bills.

How to Get the Best Efficiency from Your Heat Pump

To get the best performance from your heat pump, it’s important to use the controls that come with the system and limit interference from third-party thermostats. Let your heat pump run continuously at a low, steady pace. This keeps your home warm without the system constantly having to restart, which is more energy-efficient and saves you money.

In highly insulated homes or rooms with lots of sunlight, some indoor temperature control may be needed. However, it’s best to let your heat pump’s controller handle these adjustments to maintain long, steady run times and keep your home comfortable.

 

If you are looking for some helpful advice on the right heat pump system for your home, contact us today for technical advice